Russia extends wide-ranging snap mobilisation exercises

Russia placed its Northern Fleet and elements of its Western Military District (WMD) and Airborne Troops (VDV) on combat readiness in preparation for snap mobilisation exercises in the Arctic on 16 March.

Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu announced the tests would involve more than 38,000 troops, 3,360 military vehicles, 41 ships, and 15 submarines, as well as 110 aircraft.

“New threats and challenges to military security require further enhancements to combat capabilities,” said Shoigu.

Russia’s Defence Ministry explained that the drills are to evaluate the military capabilities of the Northern Fleet and combined arms formations in the Arctic against conventional and sabotage attacks.